Building Inspector

Description

The purpose of this classification is to perform specialized work functions associated with inspection of buildings and related systems to ensure compliance with applicable building codes.

• Administers and enforces the provisions of applicable federal, state and local building codes; researches code-related issues in code books as needed; initiates any actions necessary to correct deviations or violations.
• Performs site inspections of construction work, buildings, and related systems for conformance with applicable codes; inspects electrical systems, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing systems, foundations, and framing of all new construction and remodeling projects.
• Approves/rejects construction work during progressive stages of construction through final inspection.
• Provides information concerning requirements of building codes and construction standards; discusses problem areas with owners and contractors; responds to questions or complaints concerning building or construction code violations.
• Conducts scheduled and random inspections; reviews and prioritizes inspection requests; schedules follow‑up inspections as required.
• Prepares inspection reports and maintains accurate records of inspection activities.
• Coordinates inspection activities with owners, contractors, other inspectors, or other individuals.
• Reviews/interprets blueprints, architectural drawings, construction plans and specifications.
• Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, inspection reports, dilapidated housing reports, or other documents.
• Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, inspection requests, permit issuance reports, architectural drawings, blueprints, construction plans, ordinances, code books, maps, manuals, reference materials, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.
• Operates a motor vehicle, personal computer, measuring devices, circuit tester, general office equipment, or other equipment as necessary to complete essential functions, to include the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, e‑mail, Internet, or other computer applications.
• Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, city officials, building officials, contractors, architects, engineers, the public, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge and awareness of applicable laws/regulations; maintains an awareness of new trends and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate.
• Conducts hurricane damage estimates to submit to FEMA.
• Assists with incoming phone calls; directs calls to correct personnel.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of basic arithmetic operations.
• Skill in operating, maneuvering and/or controlling the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions.
• Ability to review, classify, categorize, prioritize, and/or analyze data. Includes exercising discretion in determining data classification, and in referencing such analysis to established standards for the purpose of recognizing actual or probable interactive effects and relationships.
• Ability to provide guidance, assistance, and/or interpretation to others regarding the application of procedures and standards to specific situations.
• Ability to utilize a wide variety of reference, descriptive, and/or advisory data and information.
• Ability to apply principles of rational systems; to interpret instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic, or schedule form; and to exercise independent judgment to adopt or modify methods and standards to meet variations in assigned objectives.
• Ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma (or equivalent); supplemented by vocational/technical training or certification(s) in building mechanical systems, building construction, or building inspection; supplemented by six (6) years previous experience and/or training that includes building inspection, building mechanical systems, or building construction; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Licenses or

Certifications:

Valid State of Alabama driver’s license. Possess or maintain residential or commercial inspector certification with six (6) months of hire.

The work is light work which requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force. Work requires ability to exert very moderate physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing stairs, stooping, kneeling,…